Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Name: Easy Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Easy Banana Bread Recipe is a delightful way to use overripe bananas, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf that's perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-31T16:16:06.097Z

This banana bread recipe has been passed down for generations, cherished for its simplicity and delicious flavor. It's a comforting treat that fills your kitchen with a warm aroma.

        You'll Love This Banana Bread Because
        It's incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients.
The bananas create a naturally sweet flavor that's irresistible.
Perfectly moist texture that pairs well with butter or cream cheese.

      

The Joy of Baking with Bananas

Baking with overripe bananas is not just practical; it's a delicious way to reduce food waste. Instead of tossing those spotty bananas, turn them into a scrumptious loaf of banana bread that everyone will love. The natural sugars in the ripe bananas enhance the sweetness of the bread, making it a wholesome treat perfect for any time of day.

Banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes. Whether you enjoy it plain, with nuts, or even chocolate chips, there’s a banana bread variation for everyone. This recipe serves as a great base, allowing you to experiment with your favorite add-ins for a personalized touch.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This easy banana bread is not just a breakfast option; it’s a delightful snack that works well for brunches, picnics, or even as a sweet ending to a dinner party. Its moist texture and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that it won’t last long on your kitchen counter. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting experience.

Furthermore, banana bread makes for a thoughtful homemade gift. Wrap it in some parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon for a charming present that friends and family will appreciate. It’s a lovely way to share a little love and sweetness, making it perfect for holidays or special occasions.

Tips for the Best Banana Bread

To achieve the best results, using very ripe bananas is key. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled or even blackened; the riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If you don't have ripe bananas on hand, you can speed up the process by placing unripe bananas in a brown paper bag for a day or two.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Once you add the flour, mix until just combined to maintain a tender crumb. If you’re looking for added texture, consider folding in chopped walnuts or pecans, or even a handful of chocolate chips for a decadent twist.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour

Make sure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mix the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Stir in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing well. Finally, stir in the flour until just combined.

Bake

Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Storage Tips

Once your banana bread has completely cooled, store it wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain its moisture. It can stay fresh at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Just wrap them tightly and pop them into a freezer bag; they can last for about three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply remove a slice and let it thaw at room temperature, or warm it up in the toaster for a few minutes. This way, you can always have a delicious treat on hand whenever the craving strikes!

Healthy Variations

If you're looking to make a healthier version of this banana bread, consider substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add more fiber and nutrients to your loaf without compromising on taste. Additionally, you can reduce the sugar slightly, as the bananas provide natural sweetness.

For a dairy-free alternative, replace the melted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. This will not only keep the recipe dairy-free but will also add a subtle flavor that complements the bananas beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw the frozen bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store banana bread?

Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I tell when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.